Dispersions containing fatty acid esters of styrenated phenol alkoxylates

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides a dispersant for aqueous and non-aqueous systems which can disperse insoluble fine powders in non-aqueous liquids in a short period of time and give long-term dispersion stability to the resulting dispersions without allowing the formation of hard cake or precipitates. The dispersant is a compound of the formula  
                 
 
wherein SO is styrene oxide; R is a C 8 -C 22  saturated or unsaturated group; x=0-100; y=1-3; z=0-100 and s=0-100. The dispersant of the invention is also particularly effective for dispersing additives into polymers such as polyesters, polyamides, polycarbonates, polyethylene and polypropylene.

This application is a continuation-in-part of pending U.S. applicationSer. No. 11/013,785 filed Dec. 17, 2004, which is in its entirety hereinincorporated by reference. This application also claims the prioritybenefit under 35 U.S.C. section 119 of U.S. provisional application Ser.No. 60/529,755 entitled “Pigment Dispersions Containing Fatty AcidEsters Of Styrenated Phenol Alkoxylates” filed Dec. 17, 2003, which isin its entirety herein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

This invention relates to new and useful non-aqueous liquid pigmentdispersions which are easy to handle and produce thorough and effectivecolorations within target media, particularly as compared to standardsolid pigments or high-viscosity liquid pigment dispersions.

This invention relates to a class of dispersants for non-aqueous systemswhich can disperse pigments in non-aqueous liquids within a short periodof time and thereby give dispersions showing good dispersion stabilityfor a prolonged period of time.

The present invention also pertains to a process of preparing aqueousand non-aqueous dispersions containing a pigment uniformly distributedthroughout. In particular, the invention relates to a process ofdispersing a pigment in a non-aqueous system with fatty acid esters ofstyrenated phenol ethoxylates. The invention is also directed tonon-aqueous pigment dispersions containing organic pigments andsurfactants based on fatty acid esters of styrenated phenol alkoxylatesand fatty acid esters of styrenated bisphenol alkoxylates. Thedispersions are produced by dispersing the pigment and the otherconstituents in an organic solvent, using bead mills and ultrasonicmills. The non-aqueous organic pigment dispersions can be used in manyapplications such as paints, colored plastisols, nail polishcompositions, printing inks including ink-jet inks or writing inks.

The present invention also relates to pigment dispersions in organicsolvents and containing a fatty acid ester of a styrenated phenolalkoxylate and fatty acid ester of a styrenated bisphenol alkoxylate asdispersing agent. The pigment dispersion can be used in paints based onorganic solvents.

The present invention also provides pigment dispersions in organicsolvents and which, without causing flocculations which may causeunacceptable differences in color, may be used in organic solvent basedpaints.

This invention also relates to pigment dispersions suitable forpigmenting hydrophilic as well as hydrophobic media. The presentinvention further relates to methods of preparing inorganic pigmentdispersions useful in the manufacture of paints, and paints preparedtherewith.

Furthermore, the invention relates to dispersants which, when pigmentsinsoluble in organic liquids are dispersed in said organic liquids inthe presence thereof, can provide dispersions particularly excellent inflowability and dispersion stability.

The present invention also relates to a pigment dispersion suitable forpreparation of coating compositions wherein a pigment is finely andstably dispersed in a high concentration in a non-aqueous solvent forapplications in industrial fields of inks, paints, pigmentedphotoresists and the like, and particularly suitable for preparation ofan offset printing ink composition which is excellent both in thepigment dispersibility and in the printability. The present inventionfurther relates to an offset printing ink composition using the pigmentdispersion.

The instant invention also provides nail polish and nail lackerscontaining the pigment dispersions of the invention.

The invention also relates to dispersing agents for mineral and/ororganic fillers in resins intended to undergo transformation in a coldor hot state.

The present invention also relates to dispersing agents based on a fattyacid ester of a styrenated phenol alkoxylate and fatty acid ester of astyrenated bisphenol alkoxylate useful for dispersing mineral and/ororganic fillers in thermoplastic and/or thermosetting materials, and topolymer compositions which are flowable and homogeneous (i.e., wellmixed) and have a high filler content.

The invention further relates to thermoplastic and/or thermosettingpolymer compositions, or polymer compositions transformable at low orhigh temperature, which are flowable and homogeneous, have a high fillercontent, and comprise one or more of the above-described dispersants.

Finally, the invention also relates to the use of the describeddispersing agents and polymer compositions in the manufacture of plasticmaterials.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The introduction of solids into liquid media requires high mechanicalforces. This depends substantially on the wettability of the solid bythe surrounding medium and on the affinity to this medium. For thepurposes of reducing these dispersing forces it is conventional to usedispersants facilitating the dispersion. These are mostly surfactants ortensides having an anionic, cationic or a non-ionic structure. Theseagents are directly applied to the solid or added to the dispersingmedium in relatively small amounts.

It is further known that these solids tend to flocculate following thedispersion, which nullifies the work earlier done and leads to seriousproblems. These problems have been accounted for by the London/van derWaal's forces by which the solids attract each other. For the purposesof counteracting these attractive forces absorption layers must beapplied to the solid. This is done by using such tensides.

During and following the dispersion there is an interaction between thesurrounding medium and the solid particle, resulting in a desorption ofthe tenside by exchange for the surrounding medium present in a higherconcentration. This medium, however, is not capable in most cases ofbuilding up such stable absorption layers, resulting in a crash of thewhole system. This becomes apparent by the increase in viscosity inliquid systems, losses of gloss and color shifts in lacquers andcoatings as well as insufficient color force development in pigmentedsynthetics.

To solve this problem, e.g., EP-A 154,678, EP-A 74080, U.S. Pat. No.4,032,698 and DE-A 24 38 414 propose the use dispersants. Thesedispersants, however, only lead to a partial solution, particularly withrespect to the miscibility without flocculation of different pigmentswith each other, such as organic pigments and inorganic pigments.Moreover, the pigment pastes prepared by the methods defined tend tointeract with the surrounding medium, e.g., after use in lacquers.Consequently, it can be assumed that the absorption layers built up onlyhave insufficient stability against desorption. A number of dispersantsproposed in these publications further have the drawback that thestorage stability is too poor, which leads to precipitation, phaseseparation, crystallization, etc. This results in that such products areinhomogeneous and useless in practice after a relatively short time.

It is also known that pigments are widely used as colorants, forexample, in paints, varnishes, and inks. Such pigments generally haveaverage particle sizes (diameters) in the range of 0.1 to 10micrometers, more typically, 1 micrometer or greater. To achieve theseparticle sizes, mechanical devices are most often used to comminutesolid particulate into smaller primary particles. The most commonmechanical devices include ball mills, attritors, sand/bead mills, androll mills. All of these devices require moving parts in order togenerate the mechanical forces required to break up the pigmentparticles. Milling times of several hours are typical, with certainpigments requiring a day or longer in order to break up, or comminute,the particles. Moreover, comminution of the pigment by contact with themilling media results in pigment surfaces exhibiting a high number ofsurface asperities. Furthermore, contamination of the dispersions fromthe mechanical parts of the milling equipment can result due to theintimate contact of the pigment with the milling media. Silicon dioxide,a grinding medium, is a common contaminant found after sand milling, forexample.

Another disadvantage of mechanical processing of pigments is the largebreadth of distribution of particle sizes resulting from such processes.This results in the presence of particles having diameters of onemicrometer or greater, even in dispersions where the average particlesize is significantly less. For dispersions requiring transparency inthe final article, these larger particles lead to unwanted lightscattering and are detrimental. The presence of these micrometer sizedparticles also leads to inherent instability, or tendency to flocculate,in the dispersions.

More stable pigment dispersions can be obtained by chemically alteringthe pigment. This often results in smaller average particle diametersbut has the disadvantages of requiring a chemical pretreatment of thepigment, still requiring mechanical milling, and still providing adispersion having a wide particle size distribution.

Current pigment dispersants are effective to some degree in dispersing apigment in a higher concentration in a non-aqueous dispersion medium andin stabilizing the dispersion, but do not offer a satisfactory effect onstabilization of a fine dispersion of the pigment.

The products commonly employed in the prior art i.e, carbon blackdispersants in coatings are salts of an acrylic acid copolymer,acetylenic diol surfactants, or polyalcohol ethers which fit intovarious classes of wetting and dispersing agents, (Calbo, Handbook ofCoatings Additives, Dekker pg. 516). Such additives could be called onto function as more than a dispersant and can also act in one or more ofthe following ways: a) to prevent flocculation, b) to prevent hardsettling, c) to improve jetness/color/gloss, d) to control viscosity,and/or e) to improve wetting of the base resin.

Various considerations are important in determining the usefulness ofany additive as a dispersing agent for use with a carbon black or withother pigments, depending upon the product into which such a dispersionis to be incorporated. When used throughout this application the termspigment(s) or pigment dispersion(s) are intended to encompass variousmaterials which may be intended to impart either color and/or serve someother function, such as for example the use of carbon black in rubberwhere, in addition to adding color, such also acts as a reinforcingagent.

One of the most important considerations in determining whether aparticular dispersant will be useful for use with a given pigment orpigments when such a pigment is to be used in a paint or coatingcomposition is whether such a dispersant/pigment combination will orwill not impart a conductive nature or characteristic to the dried paintfilm or coating into which it has been added.

The automotive industry is replacing and will continue to replaceexterior metal body panels on vehicles with plastic and composite bodypanels. Some reasons for this change are weight reduction, flexibilityof design, and lower tooling costs. The replacement of metal body panelsby plastics and composites is not without difficulties.

One problem of note is the electrostatic spray painting of plastics.Electrostatic spray painting is the preferred manner of applyingautomotive topcoats. Spray painting normally gives the best appearanceto the vehicle and the electrostatic technique assures the mosteconomical use of the material. The problem arises because plastics donot paint well electrostatically unless a conductive primer is used.

Amongst the most important considerations for determining the utility ofany dispersant to be used in conjunction with conductive carbon blacksare the following: the inherent rheological stability of the dispersion,both alone and when added to a formulated paint; resistance toflocculation of the carbon black/dispersant mixture and in the finalpaint or coating; and ability to achieve low viscosity at high pigmentloadings.

The various prior art references of which the applicants are aware whichrelate to dispersing agents for pigment additives, such as carbonblacks, suffer from a number of shortcomings. The most significantshortcomings of the carbon black dispersants of the prior art, includingthose used for conductive carbon blacks, are: high levels of dispersantmay be required which tends to detrimentally affect the physicalproperties of formulated paints, such as adversely affecting theresultant humidity resistance, yellowing upon exposure to UV light, lossof cure in melamine cross-linked systems, and other undesirable effects;inability to prevent reflocculation of carbon black, resulting in theloss of electrical conductivity in dried paint films; andincompatibility of the dispersant with the particular resin systemselected for use in the final paint formulation.

Additionally, more and more paints are produced which are water-basedand completely free from organic solvents, such as glycol ethers. Whentoning these paints to the desired colour, use is made to a great extentof pigment dispersions, which can be used both for water-based paint andfor paint based on organic solvents. The pigment dispersions arenormally composed of pigments, fillers, dispersing agents and an aqueousphase in the form of ethylene glycol, di- and triethylene glycol,propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol and glycerol.In most cases, the dispersing agent is a nonionic surface-activecompound or a combination of nonionic and anionic surfactants. Forenvironmental reasons, it is however desirable that the pigmentdispersions are solvent-free.

The shortcomings of the prior art dispersing agents noted above may beovercome by employing certain sulfated and/or carboxymethylatedstyrenated phenol alkoxylates in accordance with the present invention.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

It is a first object of the present invention to provide novel pigmentdispersions incorporating novel surfactants.

It is another object of the instant invention to provide novel pigmentdispersions containing surfactants based on fatty acid esters ofstyrenated phenol alkoxylates and/or fatty acid esters of styrenatedbisphenol alkoxylates.

A further object of the invention is to provide novel carbon blackdispersions containing novel surfactants.

A still further object of the invention is to provide novel carbon blackdispersions incorporating fatty acid esters of styrenated phenolalkoxylates and/or fatty acid esters of styrenated bisphenolalkoxylates.

An additional object of the invention is to provide novel non-aqueouspigment dispersions incorporating fatty acid esters of styrenated phenolalkoxylates and/or fatty acid esters of styrenated bisphenolalkoxylates.

A still further object of the invention is to provide non-aqueous carbonblack dispersions containing surfactants based on fatty acid esters ofstyrenated phenol alkoxylates and fatty acid esters of styrenatedbisphenol alkoxylates.

An additional object of the present invention is mixtures of fatty acidesters of styrenated phenol alkoxylates and fatty acid esters ofstyrenated bisphenol alkoxylates.

Still, another object of the invention are pigment dispersions having avery high tinctorial strength and brilliance, an excellent levelness andcovering power in opaque applications.

A further object of the invention is to provide thermoplastic and/orthermosetting polymer compositions, or polymer compositionstransformable at low or high temperature, which are the basis forplastics materials with improved physical and chemical properties suchas mechanical, thermal, dielectric, and esthetic properties comprisingat least one dispersing agent.

These and other objects of the present invention will more readilybecome apparent from the description and examples which follow.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a pigment dispersion comprising:(a) a pigment; (b) a solvent; and (c) a surfactant the formula:

wherein SO is styrene oxide; R is a C₈-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturatedgroup x=0-100; y=1-3; z=0-100 and s=0-100 .

The present invention is also directed to a pigment dispersioncomprising: (a) a pigment; (b) a solvent; (c) a polymeric resin; and (d)a surfactant the formula:

wherein SO is styrene oxide; R is a C₈-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturatedgroup x=0-100; y=1-3; z=0-100 and s=0-100.

The invention is also directed to a pigment dispersion consistingessentially of 20% to 60% by weight of pigment, 5% to 75% by weight ofan organic solvent, and 3% to 35% by weight of a pigment dispersant,said pigment dispersant being a compound of the formula

wherein R is derived from coconut fatty acid, x=9-18 and y=2-3.

The invention further provides a polymer composition comprising:

-   -   (a) a thermoplastic resin selected from the group consisting        of: (i) low- or high density polyethylene, linear or        branched, (ii) homo- or copolymeric polypropylenes, (iii)        polyisobutylenes, (iv) copolymers of two or more of the        monomers, ethylene, propylene, and butylene, (v) polyvinyl        chlorides, polystyrenes, and polyolefins, optionally halogenated        and optionally modified by grafting or copolymerization;        polyesters, polyamides and polycarbonates, or a thermosetting        resin selected from the group consisting of acrylic resins,        phenolic resins, amino-plastic resins, epoxy resins, reactive        resins used to produce polyurethanes, alkyd resins, and        unsaturated polyester resins produced by condensation reactions        of maleic anhydride with or without the presence of phthalic        derivatives with an alkylene glycol or a low molecular weight        polyalkylene glycol, in styrene wherewith said polyester is        copolymerizable with said styrene;    -   (b) an additive selected from the group consisting of: (i) one        or more mineral fillers, organic fillers of natural or synthetic        origin or a mixture thereof wherein said one or more mineral        fillers is selected from the group consisting of titanium        dioxide, natural calcium carbonate, precipitated calcium        carbonate, magnesium carbonate, zinc carbonate, dolomite, lime,        magnesia, barium sulfate, calcium sulfate, aluminum hydroxide,        magnesium hydroxide, silica, wollastonite, clays, talc, mica,        solid glass spheres, hollow glass spheres, and metal oxides and        wherein said organic fillers are selected from the group        consisting of organic materials of natural and synthetic origin,        and (ii) one or more additives selected from the group        consisting of antioxidants, metal deactivators, light        stabilizers, pvc stabilizers, plasticizers, lubricants,        processing aids, impact modifiers, fiber reinforcements, flame        retardants, antistatic agents, fluorescent whitening agents,        biostabilizers, antimicrobials, chemical blowing agents, organic        peroxides, nucleating agents, polymerization catalysts, grafting        catalysts, thermal stabilizers, photochemical stabilizers,        shrink-preventive agents, antistatic agents, mold-release        agents, glass fibers, and mineral thickeners and mixtures        thereof, and mixtures of (i) and (ii); and    -   (c) a dispersant of the formula        wherein R is derived from coconut fatty acid, x=9-18 and y=2-3.

The instant invention further provides a method of preparing a polymercomposition comprising mixing a dispersing agent of the formula

wherein R is derived from coconut fatty acid, x=9-18 and y=2-3, with apolymer and an additive selected from the group consisting of: (i) oneor more mineral fillers, organic fillers of natural or synthetic originor a mixture thereof wherein said one or more mineral fillers isselected from the group consisting of titanium dioxide, natural calciumcarbonate, precipitated calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, zinccarbonate, dolomite, lime, magnesia, barium sulfate, calcium sulfate,aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, silica, wollastonite, clays,talc, mica, solid glass spheres, hollow glass spheres, and metal oxidesand wherein said organic fillers are selected from the group consistingof organic materials of natural and synthetic origin, and (ii) one ormore additives selected from the group consisting of antioxidants, metaldeactivators, light stabilizers, pvc stabilizers, plasticizers,lubricants, processing aids, impact modifiers, fiber reinforcements,flame retardants, antistatic agents, fluorescent whitening agents,biostabilizers, antimicrobials, chemical blowing agents, organicperoxides, nucleating agents, polymerization catalysts, graftingcatalysts, thermal stabilizers, photochemical stabilizers,shrink-preventive agents, antistatic agents, mold-release agents, glassfibers, and mineral thickeners and mixtures thereof, and mixtures of (i)and (ii).

The invention is also directed to a polymeric composition comprising:(a) a polymer; (b) an inorganic or organic additive; and (c) adispersant of the formula

wherein R is a C₈-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturated group; x=1-100; andy=1-3.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Our invention relates to the use of C₈-C₂₂ saturated and unsaturatedfatty acid esters of alkoxylated styrenated phenols as a pigmentdispersant especially for non-aqueous dispersions, however also usablein aqueous dispersions.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention,there is provided a pigment dispersion comprising a pigment, anon-aqueous solvent and a pigment dispersant of the formula

wherein SO is styrene oxide; R is a C₈-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturatedgroup x=0-100; y=1-3; z=0-100 and s=0-100.

In a most preferred embodiment there is provided a pigment dispersioncomprising 20% to 60% by weight of pigment, 5% to 75% by weight of anorganic solvent, and 3% to 35% by weight of a pigment dispersant, saidpigment dispersant being a compound of the formula

wherein R is derived from coconut fatty acid, x=9-18 and y=2-3.

In the present specification, the term “non-aqueous” denotes acomposition into which no water has been specifically introduced. Due tothe possibility of atmospheric water being introduced through exposureto a relatively humid environment, this term does not rule out thepotential for any water to be present through such a manner. The term“liquid dispersion” is intended to encompass any composition which ispresent in a fluid state (i.e., possessing a viscosity of below about10,000 centipoise at standard temperature and pressure).

The non-aqueous solvent usable in the present invention varies dependingupon the use of the pigment dispersion of the present invention. Forinstance, examples of the non-aqueous solvent for use in paints areusual organic solvents such as esters, ethers, ketones, alcohols, andaromatic solvents. Examples of other non-aqueous solvent include theglycol ethers such as ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycolmonoethyl ether, diethylene glycol dimethyl ether and dipropylene glycolmonoethyl ether, glycol monoether acetates such as ethylene glycolmonoethyl ether acetate, propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate anddiethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate, ketones such as cyclohexanoneand methyl ethyl ketone, amides such as N, N-dimethylacetamide andN-methylpyrrolidone, lactones such as .gamma.-butyrolactone, and aceticacid esters such as butyl acetate. Preferable as the non-aqueous solventfor use in printing inks, particularly offset printing inks arelipophilic solvents such as vegetable oils and mineral oils.

In applications where resins are present, plasticizers are an importantcomponent of the formulation. Examples of plasticizers that are suitableinclude benzyl butyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, triphenyl phosphate,2-ethyl hexyl benzyl phthalate and dicyclohexyl phthalate. Otherwell-known plasticizers which may be employed include dinonylphthalate,diisononylphthalate, diallyl phthalate, dibenzyl phthalate, butylcyclohexyl phthalate, mixed benzoic acid and fatty oil acid esters ofpentaerythritol, poly(propylene adipate) dibenzoate, diethylene glycoldibenzoate, tetrabutylthiodisuccinate, butyl phthalyl butyl glycolate,acetyl tributyl citrate, dibenzyl sebacate, tricresyl phosphate, tolueneethyl sulfonamide, the di 2-ethylhexyl ester of hexamethylenediphthalate, and di(methylcyclohexyl) phthalate. The particularplasticizer and the amount thereof used are chosen in accordance withthe demand for compatibility.

The dispersants of the present invention are manufactured by reacting astyrenated phenol alkoxylate of the formulae (i) or (ii) or (iii)

wherein x=1-100; y=1, 2, 3; z=0-100 s=0-100 with an equimolar amount ofa C₈-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturated fatty acid in the presence ofp-toluenesulfonic acid as a catalyst. The reaction is conducted in asuitable reactor at a temperature range of about 100°-160° C., morepreferably at a temperature range of 120°-135° C. and most preferably ata temperature range of 145°-160° C.

The styrenated phenols alkoxylates are intended to include compoundshaving the following chemical structures:

wherein x is as defined above. The propoxylated as well as the mixedproduct ethoxylate/propoxylate and ethoxylate/propoxylate/styroxylateare also intended to be included within the scope of the presentinvention.

The preferred dispersing agent/surfactant of the invention has theformula

wherein R is a C₈-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturated group; x=1-100; andy=1-3. A most preferred dispersing agent has the formula

wherein y is about 2.0-2.5 and x is about 9-18.

The pigment of the dispersion of the present invention may be selectedfrom inorganic pigments (such as carbon black pigments, e.g., furnaceblacks, electrically conductive carbon black pigments, extender pigmentsand corrosion inhibitive pigments); organic pigments; dispersed dyes;and mixtures thereof. Examples of organic pigments that may be presentin the pigment dispersion include, but are not limited to, perylenes,phthalo green, phthalo blue, nitroso pigments, manoazo pigments, diazopigments, diazo condensation pigments, basic dye pigments, alkali bluepigments, blue lake pigments, phloxin pigments, quinacridone pigments,lake pigments of acid yellow 1 and 3, carbozole dioxazine violetpigments, alizarine lake pigments, vat pigments, phthaloxy aminepigments, carmine lake pigments, tetrachloroisoindolinone pigments andmixtures thereof. Inorganic pigments that may be present in the pigmentdispersion, include, for example, titanium dioxide, electricallyconductive titanium dioxide, and iron oxides, e.g., red iron oxides,yellow iron oxides, black iron oxides and transparent iron oxides.Extender pigments that may be present in the pigment dispersion include,but are not limited to, silicas, clays, alkaline earth metal sulfatesand carbonates, such as calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, bariumsulfate, and calcium carbonate. The pigment dispersion may containcorrosion inhibitive pigments, such as aluminum phosphate and calciummodified silica. Mixtures of organic and inorganic pigments are alsosuitable for making the dispersions of the present invention.

Pigment blacks with an average primary particle diameter of 8 to 80 nm,preferably 10 to 35 nm, and a DBP number of 40 to 200 ml/100 g,preferably 60 to 150 ml/100 g, can be used as the carbon black. In apreferred embodiment of the invention, gas blacks with an averageprimary particle diameter of 8 to 30 nm, preferably 10 to 25 nm, can beused.

The pigment dispersions according to the invention contain 1 to 65% byweight, preferably 30 to 50% by weight, of pigment, 2 to 35% by weight,preferably 3 to 20% by weight, of the esterified styrenated phenolalkoxylate products, 0 to 20%, preferably 0 to 5%, of additionalnonionic or anionic surface-active agents, and 25 to 40% by weight of asolvent.

The amount of dispersants depends on the specific materials employed andthe concentration of pigment in the dispersion required. For inorganicpigments, such as titanium dioxide and iron oxide pigment, the amountused is typically in the range 0.02 to 10%, commonly 0.05 to 5% and moreusually 0.1 to 2.5%, by weight of the pigment; for organic pigments suchas phthalocyanines, somewhat higher levels of dispersant may be used,typically in the range 0.02 to 50%, more usually from 0.1 to 30%, byweight of the pigment; and for carbon black the amount of dispersant istypically in the range 0.02 to 30%, more usually from 0.1 to 20%, byweight of the pigment.

When incorporated into end use products such as paints or surfacecoatings typical pigment levels on the final product will be from about0.02 to about 12%, particularly about 0.1 to about 10%, pigment by weighbased on the total paint or surface coating. Where coloured inorganicpigments are used, the levels will typically be from about 0.05 to about12%, particularly about 0.2 to about 10%, for white pigments,particularly titanium dioxide, the pigment may be present to provideopacity and not just colour and will often be present at concentrationse.g. in base paint formulations, of up to 25%, typically from 0.2 to25%, by weight; for organic pigments, especially phthalocyaninepigments, the levels will typically be up to about 8% typically fromabout 0.05 to about 8%, particularly about 0.1 to about 5%; and forcarbon black the levels will typically be from about 0.05 to about 8%,particularly about 0.2 to about 5%.

The non-aqueous pigment dispersion composition of the present inventionis prepared by adding a pigment to a non-aqueous solution of a pigmentdispersant, disaggregating and dispersing the pigment in the solution bymeans of a dispersing machine such as roll mill, ball mill or sand mill,diluting the resultant dispersion to a desired concentration andremoving larger particles therefrom by way of centrifugation,Scharples-type centrifugation and filtration. If a desired particle-sizedistribution cannot be obtained by the first particle classificationprocess, the dispersing process and particle classification process arerepeated until the desired particle-size distribution is obtained. Inmost instances, if the proportion of particles impassable through asieve having a mesh size of 300 nm is not greater than 30%, there is noneed for particle classification. Thus, the pigment contained in thedispersion has a median particle size of not greater than 250 nm,preferably not greater than 200 nm with not greater than 30% of thepigment particles being impassable through the sieve having a mesh sizeof 300 nm.

Also, the pigment dispersion according to the invention can be producedby first preparing a pigment-free mixture of the surface-activecompounds, the non-aqueous solvent, the antifoaming agents and any otheradditives, and subsequently adding the pigment portion which isdispersed in the mixture. The dispersion can be carried out by means ofa dissolver or grinder, for instance a ball grinder or roller mill.

The dispersion of the invention is preferably storage stable. By thisterm, it is intended that the inventive dispersion will remain in afluid state with substantially no precipitation or reagglomeration ofpigment for at least 60 days while being continuously exposed to atemperature of at least 50° C. Such a test is one manner of reproducinglong-term storage conditions and thus is not intended as being the solelimitation of temperature within this invention. One of ordinary skillin this art would appreciate the need to provide a modified test of thisnature. Thus, the inventive dispersions must merely exhibitsubstantially no precipitation and retention of its fluid state (lowviscosity) after exposure to high temperature storage for 60 days.

The pigment dispersions according to the invention can be employed forall purposes and are excellently suitable for the production of emulsionpaints based on polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl acetate copolymers,styrene-butadiene copolymers, polyvinyl propionates, acrylic andmethacrylic acid ester polymers, saponified alkyd resins and oilemulsions; for the production of wallpaper paints based on cellulosederivatives such as methylcellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose andcarboxymethylcellulose, and for the production of printing inks whichcontain, as binders, mainly saponified natural resins, such as shellac,saponified water-soluble synthetic resins or acrylate binder solutions.

The dispersant of the invention find uses in many applications. In manyapplications it dispersed pigment, polymer, plasticizer, and plastizols.In both applications, lower viscosity and higher color yield for thepigment resulted. When lower viscosity is achieved, it allows eitherincreased shear of the particulate matter added, be it pigment or dyes.In the case of pigment, this offers increase color strength; thus,saving money for the end user. The dispersant of the invention does notcoalesce the polymer, but lowers the particle size of it, which makesfor a more efficient coating. This offers what is known as ‘plate out’prevention with injection plastizol machines.

The dispersants of the invention also work with Pigment Red 57:1, diisononyl phthalate, and florescent pigments, which are made withformaldehyde resins, benzoquinoneimines, and melamine formaldehyde. Theyare essentially dyed polymers. The also work with any oil, or liquidplastic (plastizol) dispersion, where water is not present, and pigment,dye, or any particulate matter has to be dispersed. This includes inks,paints, any coating. Possibilities are solvent-borne resins, whichinclude Alkyds, Alkyd Copolymers, Oil Modified Urethanes (OMU),Polyesters and Solution Acrylics.

Although Applicant does not wish to be bound by theoretical explanationsof interfacial phenomena, it is believed that the dispersant of theinvention works by drastically lowering the interfacial tension of thepolymer/plasticizer and the pigment. When shear is applied, thepolymer/plasticizer and pigment breaks into smaller particles. Since thedispersant of the invention has a high affinity for low HLB typepolymers, steric hindrance takes place to keep the particles evenlyspaced in a lower energy state. This allows for further development ofthe pigment color using the conventional dispersing equipment. After alower viscosity is attained, many options exist for the user. Highersolids can be gained on pigment, resin, or plasticizer, not to mentionthe possible increase in color yield.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, additives useful formaking synthetic resin products are dispersed into the resins using thedispersant of the present invention. The dispersant of the invention maybe added or injected directly into a polymer melt or into a polymersolution using a solvent. The dispersant is added in the range of 0.01%to 20% by weight of the resin and the additive is present in the rangeof 0.01% to 30% by weight.

The additives that can be added to the resins are selected from thegroup consisting of (i) one or more mineral fillers, organic fillers ofnatural or synthetic origin or a mixture thereof wherein said one ormore mineral fillers is selected from the group consisting of titaniumdioxide, natural calcium carbonate, precipitated calcium carbonate,magnesium carbonate, zinc carbonate, dolomite, lime, magnesia, bariumsulfate, calcium sulfate, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide,silica, wollastonite, clays, talc, mica, solid glass spheres, hollowglass spheres, and metal oxides and wherein said organic fillers areselected from the group consisting of organic materials of natural andsynthetic origin, and (ii) one or more additives selected from the groupconsisting of antioxidants, metal deactivators, light stabilizers, pvcstabilizers, plasticizers, lubricants, processing aids, impactmodifiers, fiber reinforcements, flame retardants, antistatic agents,fluorescent whitening agents, biostabilizers, antimicrobials, chemicalblowing agents, organic peroxides, nucleating agents, polymerizationcatalysts, grafting catalysts, thermal stabilizers, photochemicalstabilizers, shrink-preventive agents, antistatic agents, mold-releaseagents, glass fibers, and mineral thickeners and mixtures thereof, andmixtures of (i) and (ii).

The thermal stabilizing agent is an antioxidant and is selected from thegroup consisting of: tetrakis[methylene3-(3′,5′-di-tert-butyl-4′-hydroxyphenyl)-propionate]-methane, octadecyl3-(3′,5′-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate,1,3,5-trimethyl-2,4,6-tris-(3,5-di-tert-butyl)-4-(hydroxyl-benzyl)benzene,bis(2,4-di-tert-butyl-phenyl)pentaerythritol diphosphite,tris(mono-nonyl-phenyl)phosphite,4,4′-butylidene-bis(5-methyl-2-tert-butyl)phenol,tris(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl)isocyanurate, tris-nonylphenylphosphite, distearyl pentaerythritol diphosphite,tetrakis-(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl)-4,4′-biphenylene diphosphonite,tris-(2,3-di-tert-butylphenyl)-phosphite, butylated hydroxy toluene,dicetyl thiodipropionate, dimyristyl thiodipropionate, andpoly(1,4-cyclohexylene-3,3′-thiodipropionate, partially terminated withstearyl alcohol, as well as mixtures of any two or more thereof.

Typical antistatic agents are selected from the group consisting ofglycerol monostearates, ethoxylated amines, polyethylene glycols, andquaternary ammonium compounds, as well as mixtures of any two or morethereof.

The coupling agents are selected from the group consisting of silanestitanates, chromium complexes, carboxyl-substituted polyolefins,carboxyl-substituted acrylates, and paraffins, as well as mixtures ofany two or more thereof.

The UV stabilizers are selected from the group consisting of:2-hydroxy-4-octoxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-isooctoxy-benzophenone,4-hydroxy-4-n-dodecycloxybenzophenone,2-(3-di-tert-butyl-2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl-5-chlorobenzyltriazole,2-(2-hydroxy-3,5-di-tert-amylphenyl)-benzotri-azole,para-tert-butylphenyl salicylate,2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl-3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydro-xybenzoate, nickelbis-ortho-ethyl(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl) phosphonate, and2,2′,6,6′-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl sebacate, as well as mixtures of anytwo or more thereof.

The flame retardant is selected from the group consisting of:decabromodiphenyl oxide, dodecachlorodimethane dibenzocyclooctane,ethylene bis-dibromo norbornane dicarboxamide, ethylenebis-tetra-bromophthalimide, and antimony trioxide, as well as mixturesof any two or more thereof.

The metal deactivating agent is selected from the group consisting of:oxalyl bis-(benzylidene hydrazide), and 2,2′-oxamido bis-(ethyl3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) propionate, as well as mixtures ofany two or more thereof.

The nucleating agent is selected from the group consisting of sodiumbenzoate, diphenyl phosphinic acid, the magnesium, sodium, calcium, andaluminum salts of diphenyl phosphinic acid, phenyl phosphinic acid, themagnesium, sodium, calcium, and aluminum salts of phenyl phosphinicacid, phenyl phosphorous acid, and the magnesium, sodium, calcium, andaluminum salts of phenyl phosphorous acid, as well as mixtures of anytwo or more thereof.

The resins are selected from the group consisting of: (a) athermoplastic resin selected from the group consisting of: (i) low- orhigh density polyethylene, linear or branched, (ii) homo- or copolymericpolypropylenes, (iii) polyisobutylenes, (iv) copolymers of two or moreof the monomers, ethylene, propylene, and butylene, (v) polyvinylchlorides, polystyrenes, and polyolefins, optionally halogenated andoptionally modified by grafting or copolymerization; polyesters,polyamides, polyolefins and polycarbonates, or a thermosetting resinselected from the group consisting of acrylic resins, phenolic resins,amino-plastic resins, epoxy resins, reactive resins used to producepolyurethanes, alkyd resins, and unsaturated polyester resins producedby condensation reactions of maleic anhydride with or without thepresence of phthalic derivatives with an alkylene glycol or a lowmolecular weight polyalkylene glycol, in styrene wherewith saidpolyester is copolymerizable with said styrene.

The method of manufacturing filled polymer compounds which arepreferably flowable and homogeneous (i.e., well mixed) according to theinvention, is characterized in that the inventive dispersing agent isadded to the mineral and/or organic fillers prior to their introductionto the resin, or to the resin prior to or after the introduction of saidfillers to the resin.

The polymer compositions of the invention may be employed in any methodof forming or processing of thermoplastics, such as extrusion, injectionmolding, calendering, etc.

EXAMPLES

The present invention is illustrated by the following Examples, butshould not be construed to be limited thereto. In the Examples, “part”and “%” are all part by weight or % by weight unless specifiedotherwise.

The starting material for making the preferred esterified surfactants isa styrenated phenol ethoxylate having the following chemical structure:

wherein y is about 2.0-2.5, x is about 9-18. The above material is soldby Ethox Chemicals under the designation Ethox 2938.

The product is used around 3%-9%, based on 100% theoretical yield ofpigment in an non-aqueous dispersion, by weight. That is, for a 35%active pigment dispersion, use roughly 4% dispersant. The product hasbeen successfully used in acrylic latex, styrene acrylic latexes, as anemulsifier, and UV absorbers for the textile industry. It is also usefulfor making dispersions of kaolin clays and inorganic pigments, and as adispersant for magnetic tape media, and as a vermiculite dispersant forpolyester film. The dispersant also affects the rheological propertiesof the Joncryl Polymers from Johnson, thus lessening their usage rate,but allowing the same adhesion. The dispersant of the invention lowersthe particle size of the pigment or particle, while retardingre-agglomeration, which intum promotes a lower viscosity with increasedstability The product offers shorter milling times and may allow for theuse of cheaper less refined pigments.

The following Examples are illustrative of the invention.

Example 1

The amount of components as outlined below are used in the preparationof a coconut fatty acid ester x=9-18 and and y=2.0-2.3. COMPONENT AMOUNTEthox 2938 (anhydrous) 161.3 g p-toluenesulfonic acid  0.5 g Coconutfatty acid   35 g

To a clean reactor, charge about 165 grams of the ETHOX 2938 so thatafter drying there will be approximately 161.3 lbs. of anhydrousmaterial. Dry with N₂ and heat to 110-120° C. to a water content %H2O<0.1%. When dry, cool to 80° C. Then add 35 g of p-toluenesulfonicacid and 0.5 g of coconut fatty acid and heat at 135-155° C. Thereaction takes 20-28 hours and a product of the formula

wherein y is about 2.0-2.5, x is about 9-18.

Example 2

The following components are reacted using the procedure of Example 1.COMPONENT AMOUNT Ethox 2938 (anhydrous)   82 g p-toluenesulfonic acid0.25 g Coconut fatty acid   18 g

The resulting product is a pale yellow liquid.

Example 3

The following components are reacted using the procedure of Example 1.COMPONENT AMOUNT Ethox 2938 (anhydrous) 1610.3 g p-toluenesulfonic acid   5 g Coconut fatty acid   350 g

Example 4

The following components are reacted using the procedure of Example 1.COMPONENT AMOUNT Ethox 2938 (anhydrous)  805 g p-toluenesulfonic acid 2.5 g Coconut fatty acid  175 g Dimethylformamide 736 39.4642 1864.98100.0000%

Example 5

In the present example, a polymer and a plasticizer, were added to aCowles dissolver, and the dispersant of Example 1 was added up to 4% onthe total weight of the formulation, which becomes 35% Yellow 14pigment, 4% dispersant of Example 1, and 61% di iso nonyl phthalate.Shearing is begun, and after as much as fifteen minutes a noticeabledrop in viscosity occurs. At this point, pigment can be added slowly asshear is applied until the desired loading or viscosity is attained orfor more color development this can be taken to a media mill, such as aHoover or and Eiger Mill.

Example 6

A plastizol was added to a Cowles dissolver, and the dispersant ofExample 1 was added up to 4% on the total weight of the formulation,which becomes 35% Yellow 14 pigment, 4% Example 1 dispersant, and 61%plastisol. Shearing is begun, and after as much as fifteen minutes anoticeable drop in viscosity occurs. At this point, pigment can be addedslowly as shear is applied until the desired loading or viscosity isattained or for more color development this can be taken to a mediamill, such as a Hoover or and Eiger Mill.

Example 7

A mixture consisting of 11.1 kg of 1% strength aqueous ammonia, 18.0 kgof titanium dioxide pigment (rutile type) 15.0 kg of barium sulphatepigment, 10.5 kg of ground dolomite, 2.0 kg of talc, 0.3 kg ofhigh-molecular silica for preventing the pigment from settling out inthe paste, 0.1 kg of a commercially available preservative, 0.2 kg ofsodium hexamethaphosphate, 0.3 kg of a commercially availableantifoaming mixture, 0.5 kg of a nonionic emulsifier and 5.0 kg of a 3%strength aqueous solution of hydroxyethylcellulose is homogenised bymeans of a high-speed stirrer. It is then ground on a single-roll milland 37 kg of an acrylic resin dispersion are added, while stirringvigorously.

A paint which is stable against flocculation is obtained by stirring 100g of this white emulsion paint with 0.1 to 10 g of a pigment preparationproduced in accordance with Example 5. When this paint is spread onpaper with a 0.09 mm doctor blade, a distinctly greater depth of colouris obtained, compared with analogous emulsion paints.

Example 8

200 g of an unsaturated polyester resin polymerizable at low temperature(Palatal® P4, marketed by BASF) is introduced without stirring into ametal pot of capacity c. 500 mL which is equipped with a Pendraulik®laboratory stirrer having a vane of 5 cm diameter. Then 6 g of thedispersing agent OF Example 1 being tested is introduced. The stirrer isthen run 30 sec to thoroughly intermix the contents. Then 600 g naturalcalcium carbonate (Millicarb®, marketed by the firm Omya S.A.) is addedover 10 min, under stirring. The stirring is continued an additional 5min. After the 15 min total mixing time, a sample of the polymercompound is conditioned at 30° C. for 2 hr, and another sample for 24hr, following which the respective Brookfield viscosities are measuredat 30° C. with the aid of a type HBT Brookfield viscosimeter, atdifferent shear rates (5 rpm, 10 rpm, 20 rpm, and 50 rpm).

Example 9

A composition is prepared by introducing 600 g natural calcium carbonate(Millicarb, marketed by the firm Omya S.A.) into a Z-arm “Guittard”mixer preheated to 200° C., followed by addition of 6 g of thedispersant of Example 1 being tested. After mixing the filler (with orwithout dispersant) at 12 rpm for 15 min, 400 g polystyrene (Lacqrene®7240 grade 4, marketed by the firm Atochem), 1.0 g of a stabilizer(Irganox® 1010, marketed by Ciba-Geigy), and 6 g of the dispersant beingtested (if not added previously to the charge), are introduced to thechamber of the mixer. Mixing is carried out 10 min at 12 rpm, followedby gradual increases of the mixer speed to 47 rpm over 10 min, and thento 76 rpm over another 10 min.

Example 10

A master batch is prepared by introducing 600 g magnesium hydroxidefiller (Magnifing H5, marketed by the firm Martinswerke) into a Z-arm“Guittard” mixer preheated to 230° C., mixing the filler 15 min at 12rpm, and introducing 400 g polypropylene (Laqtene® 3120 MN1, marketed bythe firm Appryl) to the mixer chamber, along with 1.0 g of a stabilizer(Irganox® 1010, marketed by Ciba-Geigy) and 6 g of the dispersant ofExample 1. Mixing is carried out 10 min at 12 rpm, followed by gradualincreases of the mixer speed to 47 rpm over 10 min, and then to 76 rpmover another 5 min.

Example 11

160 g of a dioctyl phthalate plasticizer is introduced without stirringinto a metal pot of capacity of 1000 mL which is equipped with atop-mounted Pendraulikt laboratory stirrer having a vane of diameter 7.5cm. Then 2 g of a stabilizer based on barium and zinc and 2 g of thedispersant of Example 1 are introduced. The mixture is mixed thoroughlyfor 30 sec using the stirrer, following which 200 g of a PVC (PB 1302,marketed by the firm Atochem) and 200 g natural calcium carbonate(Millicarb®, marketed by the firm Omya S.A.) are added over a period of10 min, under stirring. Stirring is continued for an additional 16 min.A sample of the polymer compound is conditioned at 23° C. for 2 hr, andanother sample for 24 hr, following which the respective Brookfieldviscosities are measured at 23° C. with the aid of a type HBT Brookfieldviscosimeter, at different shear rates (5 rpm, 10 rpm, 20 rpm, 50 rpm,and 100 rpm).

Example 12

A master batch is prepared by introducing 500 g TiO₂ filler into a Z-arm“Guittard” mixer preheated to 250° C., mixing the filler 15 min at 12rpm, and introducing 400 g polypropylene (Laqtene® 3120 MN1, marketed bythe firm Appryl) to the mixer chamber, along with 1.0 g of a stabilizer(Irganox® 1010, marketed by Ciba-Geigy) and 6 g of the dispersant ofExample 1. Mixing is carried out 10 min at 12 rpm, followed by gradualincreases of the mixer speed to 47 rpm over 10 min, and then to 76 rpmover another 5 min.

Example 13

A master batch is prepared by introducing 100 g decabromodiphenyl etherflame retardant into a Z-arm “Guittard” mixer preheated to 200° C.,mixing the filler 15 min at 12 rpm, and introducing 400 g polyethyleneterephthalate to the mixer chamber, and 4 g of the dispersant ofExample 1. Mixing is carried out 10 min at 12 rpm, followed by gradualincreases of the mixer speed to 47 rpm over 10 min, and then to 76 rpmover another 5 min.

Although the present invention has been described with reference tospecific details of certain embodiments thereof, it is not intended thatsuch detail should be regarded as limitations upon the scope of theinvention, except as and to the extent that they are included in theaccompanying claims.

1. A pigment dispersion comprising: (a) a pigment; (b) a solvent; and(c) a dispersing surfactant the formula:

wherein SO is styrene oxide; R is a C₈-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturatedgroup; x=0-100; y=1-3; z=0-100 and s=0-100.
 2. The pigment dispersion ofclaim 1 wherein said pigment is an inorganic pigment.
 3. The pigmentdispersion of claim 1 wherein said pigment is an organic pigment.
 4. Thepigment dispersion of claim 1 wherein said dispersion further contains apolymeric resin.
 5. The pigment dispersion of claim 1 wherein saiddispersing surfactant is of the formula

wherein R is a C8-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturated group; x=1-100; andy=1-3.
 6. The pigment dispersion of claim 5 wherein R is a C₈-C₂₂saturated or unsaturated group; x=8-20; and y=2-3.
 7. The pigmentdispersion of claim 6 wherein R is a C8-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturatedgroup; x=12-18; and y=2-3.
 8. The pigment dispersion of claim 7 whereinR is a C₈-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturated group; x=15-18; and y=2-3.
 9. Thepigment dispersion of claim 8 wherein R is the radical derived fromlauric acid; x=15-18; and y=2-3.
 10. The pigment dispersion of claim 8wherein R is the radical derived from oleic acid; x=15-18; and y=2-3.11. The pigment dispersion of claim 8 wherein R is the radical derivedfrom coconut fatty acid; x=15-18; and y=2-3.
 12. A pigment dispersioncomprising: (a) a pigment; (b) a solvent; and (c) a dispersingsurfactant the formula:

wherein R is a C₈-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturated group; x=1-100; andy=1-3.
 13. The dispersion of claim 12 wherein R is derived from coconutfatty acid.
 14. The dispersion of claim 13 wherein x=9-18 and y=2-3. 15.A pigment dispersion consisting essentially of 20% to 60% by weight ofpigment, 5% to 75% by weight of an organic solvent, and 3% to 35% byweight of a pigment dispersant, said pigment dispersant being a compoundof the formula

wherein R is derived from coconut fatty acid, x=9-18 and y=2-3.
 16. Thedispersion of claim 15 wherein said pigment is an organic pigment. 17.The dispersion of claim 15 wherein said pigment is an inorganic pigment.18. The dispersion of claim 15 further containing a polymeric resin. 19.A method of making a pigment dispersion suitable for use in themanufacture of pigmented compositions, said method comprising mixingtogether, in any combination: (a) pigment; (b) solvent; and (c) adispersant of the formula

wherein R is derived from coconut fatty acid, x=9-18 and y=2-3.
 20. Apolymer composition comprising: (a) a thermoplastic resin selected fromthe group consisting of: (i) low- or high density polyethylene, linearor branched, (ii) homo- or copolymeric polypropylenes, (iii)polyisobutylenes, (iv) copolymers of two or more of the monomers,ethylene, propylene, and butylene, (v) polyvinyl chlorides,polystyrenes, and polyolefins, optionally halogenated and optionallymodified by grafting or copolymerization; polyesters, polyamides,polyolefins and polycarbonates, or a thermosetting resin selected fromthe group consisting of acrylic resins, phenolic resins, amino-plasticresins, epoxy resins, reactive resins used to produce polyurethanes,alkyd resins, and unsaturated polyester resins produced by condensationreactions of maleic anhydride with or without the presence of phthalicderivatives with an alkylene glycol or a low molecular weightpolyalkylene glycol, in styrene wherewith said polyester iscopolymerizable with said styrene; (b) an additive selected from thegroup consisting of: (i) one or more mineral fillers, organic fillers ofnatural or synthetic origin or a mixture thereof wherein said one ormore mineral fillers is selected from the group consisting of titaniumdioxide, natural calcium carbonate, precipitated calcium carbonate,magnesium carbonate, zinc carbonate, dolomite, lime, magnesia, bariumsulfate, calcium sulfate, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide,silica, wollastonite, clays, talc, mica, solid glass spheres, hollowglass spheres, and metal oxides and wherein said organic fillers areselected from the group consisting of organic materials of natural andsynthetic origin, and (ii) one or more additives selected from the groupconsisting of antioxidants, metal deactivators, light stabilizers, pvcstabilizers, plasticizers, lubricants, processing aids, impactmodifiers, fiber reinforcements, flame retardants, antistatic agents,fluorescent whitening agents, biostabilizers, antimicrobials, chemicalblowing agents, organic peroxides, nucleating agents, polymerizationcatalysts, grafting catalysts, thermal stabilizers, photochemicalstabilizers, shrink-preventive agents, antistatic agents, mold-releaseagents, glass fibers, and mineral thickeners and mixtures thereof, andmixtures of (i) and (ii); and (c) a dispersant of the formula

wherein R is derived from coconut fatty acid, x=9-18 and y=2-3.
 21. Amethod of preparing a polymer composition comprising mixing a dispersingagent of the formula

wherein R is derived from coconut fatty acid, x=9-18 and y=2-3, with apolymer and an additive selected from the group consisting of: (i) oneor more mineral fillers, organic fillers of natural or synthetic originor a mixture thereof wherein said one or more mineral fillers isselected from the group consisting of titanium dioxide, natural calciumcarbonate, precipitated calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, zinccarbonate, dolomite, lime, magnesia, barium sulfate, calcium sulfate,aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, silica, wollastonite, clays,talc, mica, solid glass spheres, hollow glass spheres, and metal oxidesand wherein said organic fillers are selected from the group consistingof organic materials of natural and synthetic origin, and (ii) one ormore additives selected from the group consisting of antioxidants, metaldeactivators, light stabilizers, pvc stabilizers, plasticizers,lubricants, processing aids, impact modifiers, fiber reinforcements,flame retardants, antistatic agents, fluorescent whitening agents,biostabilizers, antimicrobials, chemical blowing agents, organicperoxides, nucleating agents, polymerization catalysts, graftingcatalysts, thermal stabilizers, photochemical stabilizers,shrink-preventive agents, antistatic agents, mold-release agents, glassfibers, and mineral thickeners and mixtures thereof, and mixtures of (i)and (ii).
 22. The method according to claim 21; characterized in thatthe dispersing agent is added to the additive prior to introducing saidadditive to the polymer.
 23. The method of claim 21, wherein thedispersing agent is added to the resin before or after introducing saidadditive to the resin.
 24. A polymeric composition comprising: (a) apolymer; (b) an inorganic or organic additive; and (c) a dispersant ofthe formula

wherein R is a C₈-C₂₂ saturated or unsaturated group; x=1-100; andy=1-3.